Effect of Physical Activity on Cognitive Function and Neurogenesis: Roles of BDNF and Oxidative Stress

Abstract

Context: Cognitive disorders are one of the most common neurological problems that can be caused by lifestyle patterns, especially sedentary lifestyle, poor nutrition, exposure to a variety of toxins or diseases. Evidence Acquisition: There are various strategies recommended for the prevention and treatment of these disorders, including drug therapy, psychological therapy, dietary pattern changes, and physical activity. Results: It seems that physical activity with biological mechanisms can have beneficial effects on the central nervous system and improve cognitive function, including enhanced learning and memory, as well as reduced depression and anxiety. Conclusions: Of the major mechanisms that physical activity can affect cognitive function include increased neurogenic factors, decreased oxidative stress, decreased inflammatory mediators, and mitochondrial biogenesis. Therefore, it is recommended that people with cognitive impairments can use physical activity as an appropriate strategy to prevent and treat cognitive impairment problems.

Cognitive Function, and Its Relationships with Comorbidities, Physical Activity, and Muscular Strength in Korean Older Adults

“…Second, the cognitive benefits of PA may be mediated via anti-inflammatory effects that may function to attenuate the impact of comorbidities on cognitive function [ 48 ]. Third, PA may function together to counteract cognitive decline associated with comorbidities via neuroplasticity, angiogenesis, neurogenesis, and mitochondrial biogenesis [ 49 ]. Lastly, PA is associated with better physical function [ 50 ], better health-associated quality of life [ 51 ], and emotional and physical well-being [ 52 ], which positively contribute to cognitive function among older adults.…”